Materiały źródłowe

• #1 Alcohol use disorder – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alcohol-use-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20369243

  Genetic, psychological, social and environmental factors can impact how drinking alcohol affects your body and behavior. Theories suggest that for certain people drinking has a different and stronger impact that can lead to alcohol use disorder. […] Over time, drinking too much alcohol may change the normal function of the areas of your brain associated with the experience of pleasure, judgment and the ability to exercise control over your behavior. This may result in craving alcohol to try to restore good feelings or reduce negative ones.

• #2 Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder | National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)

  https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/understanding-alcohol-use-disorder

  Alcohol misuse defined as drinking in a manner, situation, amount, or frequency that could cause harm to the person who drinks or to those around them over time increases the risk of AUD. […] Genetics play a role, with hereditability accounting for approximately 60%. However, like other chronic health conditions, AUD risk is influenced by the interplay between a person’s genes and their environment. […] A wide range of psychiatric conditions including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are comorbid with AUD and are associated with an increased risk of AUD.

• #3 Causes And Risk Factors Of Alcoholism

  https://www.addictioncenter.com/alcohol/alcoholism-causes-risk-factors/

  Alcoholism is a very complex disease, and every case is different. There are dozens of risk factors and causes, any of which can impact a specific individual. Also, no factors are determinative; someone with very few risk factors may have severe alcoholism, and someone else with many risk factors may have no drinking issues. […] There is no singular cause of alcoholism. In fact, there are dozens of risk factors that play a role in the development of an alcohol addiction. These risk factors interact differently in every individual, leading to alcohol use disorders (AUDs) in some and not in others. […] Both internal and external factors contribute to the development of alcoholism. Internal factors include genetics, psychological conditions, personality, personal choice, and drinking history. External factors include family, environment, religion, social and cultural norms, age, education, and job status.

• #4 Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder | National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)

  https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/understanding-alcohol-use-disorder

  Alcohol misuse defined as drinking in a manner, situation, amount, or frequency that could cause harm to the person who drinks or to those around them over time increases the risk of AUD. […] Genetics play a role, with hereditability accounting for approximately 60%. However, like other chronic health conditions, AUD risk is influenced by the interplay between a person’s genes and their environment. […] A wide range of psychiatric conditions including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are comorbid with AUD and are associated with an increased risk of AUD.

• #5

  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/alcohol-misuse/

  Alcohol misuse is when you drink in a way that’s harmful, or when you’re dependent on alcohol. […] Persistent alcohol misuse increases your risk of serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, liver disease, liver cancer, bowel cancer, mouth cancer, breast cancer, pancreatitis, and damage to the brain, which can lead to problems with thinking and memory. […] As well as causing serious health problems, long-term alcohol misuse can lead to social problems for some people, such as unemployment, divorce, domestic abuse, and homelessness. […] If someone loses control over their drinking and has an excessive desire to drink, it’s known as dependent drinking (alcoholism). […] A dependent drinker usually experiences physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms if they suddenly cut down or stop drinking, including hand tremors, sweating, seeing things that are not real, depression, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. […] This often leads to „relief drinking” to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

• #6

  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/alcohol-misuse/

  Alcohol misuse is when you drink in a way that’s harmful, or when you’re dependent on alcohol. […] Persistent alcohol misuse increases your risk of serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, liver disease, liver cancer, bowel cancer, mouth cancer, breast cancer, pancreatitis, and damage to the brain, which can lead to problems with thinking and memory. […] As well as causing serious health problems, long-term alcohol misuse can lead to social problems for some people, such as unemployment, divorce, domestic abuse, and homelessness. […] If someone loses control over their drinking and has an excessive desire to drink, it’s known as dependent drinking (alcoholism). […] A dependent drinker usually experiences physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms if they suddenly cut down or stop drinking, including hand tremors, sweating, seeing things that are not real, depression, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. […] This often leads to „relief drinking” to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

• #7

  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/alcohol-misuse/

  Alcohol misuse is when you drink in a way that’s harmful, or when you’re dependent on alcohol. […] Persistent alcohol misuse increases your risk of serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, liver disease, liver cancer, bowel cancer, mouth cancer, breast cancer, pancreatitis, and damage to the brain, which can lead to problems with thinking and memory. […] As well as causing serious health problems, long-term alcohol misuse can lead to social problems for some people, such as unemployment, divorce, domestic abuse, and homelessness. […] If someone loses control over their drinking and has an excessive desire to drink, it’s known as dependent drinking (alcoholism). […] A dependent drinker usually experiences physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms if they suddenly cut down or stop drinking, including hand tremors, sweating, seeing things that are not real, depression, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. […] This often leads to „relief drinking” to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

• #8 Alcoholism | Alcohol Addiction Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment

  https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/alcohol-abuse/causes-alcoholism/

  Alcoholism is a complex disease that causes great damage to people who are affected. Its caused by a combination of genetic, environmental and personal factors. […] Alcoholism, or alcohol use disorder, is characterized by someone continuing to drink even when it harms themselves, their health, their friendships, their job and other aspects of their life. Alcoholism is caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, environment, upbringing and the presence of co-occurring mental health disorders. […] Alcoholism has no one single cause. It is a detailed combination of genetic factors and environmental cues. […] Researchers know that alcoholism has a genetic component, but it cannot be traced to a single gene. There seem to be several genes, and both their presence and how these genes interact with each other in the body helps determine whether alcoholism will develop. A known example of genetic risk is that having alcoholic parents makes a person four times more likely to develop the diagnosis, per the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.

• #9 Causes of Alcoholism: “Why Am I An Alcoholic?”

  https://www.palmerlakerecovery.com/alcohol-abuse-and-addiction/why-am-i-an-alcoholic/

  Being an alcoholic or having an alcohol use disorder (AUD) involves a problematic level of drinking that begins to affect a persons social, emotional and physical health. […] Though there is no singular cause behind alcohol addiction, many different factors can contribute to its development. […] Alcoholism is a complex disease involving physical and psychological changes that occur with consistent alcohol use. […] Addiction is a psychological process, in the sense that a persons thoughts become consumed by alcohol, and they behave in ways aimed at obtaining and using more. It is also a physical process, as the body can become physically dependent on alcohol. […] Ultimately, problematic drinking can be attributed to multiple social, psychological and biological factors. […] A combination of these factors will often lead to alcohol abuse and addiction:

• #10 Alcohol Use Disorder – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK436003/

  Although the exact etiology of alcohol use disorder remains unknown, susceptibility to the disorder is likely multifactorial. According to twin and adoption studies, approximately 50% of the liability is genetic, with the remaining 50% attributed to environmental factors. Neurobiological and epigenetic adaptations likely play a role in the development of AUD, but further research is needed. […] The fact that not every person who drinks alcohol will necessarily experience a loss of control and progression to addiction indicates that AUD is not solely driven by exposure to alcohol. As mentioned, genetic and environmental susceptibilities are not fully understood.

• #11 Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder | National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)

  https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/understanding-alcohol-use-disorder

  Alcohol misuse defined as drinking in a manner, situation, amount, or frequency that could cause harm to the person who drinks or to those around them over time increases the risk of AUD. […] Genetics play a role, with hereditability accounting for approximately 60%. However, like other chronic health conditions, AUD risk is influenced by the interplay between a person’s genes and their environment. […] A wide range of psychiatric conditions including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are comorbid with AUD and are associated with an increased risk of AUD.

• #12 Alcohol Use Disorder – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK436003/

  Although the exact etiology of alcohol use disorder remains unknown, susceptibility to the disorder is likely multifactorial. According to twin and adoption studies, approximately 50% of the liability is genetic, with the remaining 50% attributed to environmental factors. Neurobiological and epigenetic adaptations likely play a role in the development of AUD, but further research is needed. […] The fact that not every person who drinks alcohol will necessarily experience a loss of control and progression to addiction indicates that AUD is not solely driven by exposure to alcohol. As mentioned, genetic and environmental susceptibilities are not fully understood.

• #13 What is alcohol use disorder? How to treat alcoholism

  https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/157163

  Alcohol dependence develops over time and can disrupt the balance of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain and glutamate. GABA controls impulsiveness, while glutamate stimulates the nervous system. […] In the brain, levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine rise after consuming alcohol. These heightened dopamine levels may make the drinking experience more gratifying. […] Over the long or medium term, excessive drinking can significantly alter the levels of these brain chemicals. This causes the body to crave alcohol to feel good and avoid feeling bad. […] Some risk factors may also contribute to AUD, including: Genes: According to the NIH, genetic factors account for around half the risk of AUD. Environmental factors and interaction between genes and the environment account for the remaining risk.

• #14 Alcohol abuse – Harvard Health

  https://www.health.harvard.edu/addiction/alcohol-abuse

  When an individual’s drinking causes distress or harm, that’s called an alcohol use disorder. […] Why some people abuse alcohol and others don’t is not fully understood, but a family history of addiction to alcohol places a person at higher risk. Children of parents who have trouble with alcohol have a fourfold increased risk of the disorder. […] People with alcohol problems often drink alone and say they use alcohol to help them sleep or deal with stress. […] Treating alcohol abuse begins by helping the drinker understand that he or she has a problem and needs help. […] Almost all treatment programs view alcohol dependence as a chronic, progressive disease, and most programs insist on complete abstinence from alcohol and other drugs. […] Health professionals counsel the person and family about the nature of addiction and help the person find positive alternatives to using alcohol.

• #15 Alcoholism – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alcoholism

  Causes Environmental and genetic factors. […] The development of alcoholism is attributed to both environment and genetics equally. […] The use of alcohol to self-medicate stress or anxiety can turn into alcoholism. […] Someone with a parent or sibling with an alcohol use disorder is three to four times more likely to develop an alcohol use disorder themselves, but only a minority of them do. […] High stress levels and anxiety, as well as alcohol’s inexpensive cost and easy accessibility, increase the risk. […] There is compelling evidence that alcohol use at an early age may influence the expression of genes which increase the risk of alcohol dependence. […] Severe childhood trauma is also associated with a general increase in the risk of drug dependency. […] Lack of peer and family support is associated with an increased risk of alcoholism developing. […] Genetics and adolescence are associated with an increased sensitivity to the neurotoxic effects of chronic alcohol misuse. […] The use of cannabis was associated with later problems with alcohol use. […] Alcohol is the most available, widely consumed, and widely misused recreational drug.

• #16 Understanding Causes of Alcoholism | St. Joseph Institute for Addiction

  https://stjosephinstitute.com/blog/understanding-the-causes-of-alcoholism-how-genes-and-environmental-factors-contribute-to-your-personal-addiction-risk/

  Multiple studies have shown that the younger you are when you take your first drink, the more difficulty you’ll have regulating your alcohol intake. […] Children of alcoholic parents have two to four times the risk of becoming alcoholics as adults. […] This risk factor remains even in cases where the child is adopted and raised in a family where neither parent has an alcohol use disorder. […] However, despite this increased genetic risk, less than half of children with an alcoholic parent grow up to abuse alcohol themselves. […] Having a full understanding of genetic risk factors and the health effects of alcohol abuse is associated with lower levels of problem drinking. […] Feeling loved and supported by the people around you makes you less likely to want to turn to alcohol for comfort.

• #17 Alcoholism – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alcoholism

  Causes Environmental and genetic factors. […] The development of alcoholism is attributed to both environment and genetics equally. […] The use of alcohol to self-medicate stress or anxiety can turn into alcoholism. […] Someone with a parent or sibling with an alcohol use disorder is three to four times more likely to develop an alcohol use disorder themselves, but only a minority of them do. […] High stress levels and anxiety, as well as alcohol’s inexpensive cost and easy accessibility, increase the risk. […] There is compelling evidence that alcohol use at an early age may influence the expression of genes which increase the risk of alcohol dependence. […] Severe childhood trauma is also associated with a general increase in the risk of drug dependency. […] Lack of peer and family support is associated with an increased risk of alcoholism developing. […] Genetics and adolescence are associated with an increased sensitivity to the neurotoxic effects of chronic alcohol misuse. […] The use of cannabis was associated with later problems with alcohol use. […] Alcohol is the most available, widely consumed, and widely misused recreational drug.

• #18 10 Common Causes of Alcoholism

  https://compassionbehavioralhealth.com/10-common-causes-of-alcoholism/

  There is no single cause of alcoholism. Each person that ends up struggling with this form of substance abuse has their own unique story. […] Alcohol disorders develop when a persons drinking habits cause chemical changes in their brain. The progression into a full addiction is usually gradual and withdrawal from alcohol can produce physical symptoms. […] While there is no universal indicating factor to ones risk level, there are some factors that have historically been known to contribute to developing the disorder. […] On both a genetic and environmental level, family history can contribute to alcoholism. Research has shown that the two genes ADH1B and ALDH2, which control alcohol metabolism, are key factors in developing alcoholism along with several others. […] A person who engages in these practices may also develop alcoholism.

• #19 Alcoholism – Genetics, Environment, Abuse | Britannica

  https://www.britannica.com/science/alcoholism/Causes-of-alcoholism

  Studies of twins and adoptees have confirmed the common belief that alcoholism can be inherited. This genetic component is not inexorable, but reflects a predisposition that renders some people significantly more vulnerable to alcoholism than others. At present there is no evidence that this predisposition depends upon a single gene. Rather, there are probably a large number of genes, each with rather small individual effects, that affect the risk of developing alcoholism. […] Besides heredity, there are at least five other major contributing causes to alcoholism: peer influence, cultural influence, certain coexisting psychiatric conditions, availability, and occupation. Peer social networks (friends, clubs, or spouses) that include heavy drinkers and alcohol abusers increase the individuals risk of alcoholism. Cultural attitudes and informal rules for drinking are also important.

• #20 What Are the Causes of Alcoholism & Alcohol Abuse?

  https://alcohol.org/alcoholism/the-causes/

  Likewise, there is no single identified cause that leads to the development of alcoholism. […] Family history is often meant to designate a genetic component to some disease or disorder; however, in the case of mental health disorders, family history can represent genetic factors, learning factors, or a combination of both. […] Even though numerous genetic associations have been described for the development of substance use disorders, there is no singular genetic factor that can be designated as a cause to any substance use disorder. […] The presence of a pre-existing substance use disorder is an increased risk factor to be diagnosed with another type of mental health disorder later. […] It appears that any type of traumatic or stress-related situation can increase the risk to abuse alcohol; however, certain types of experiences, such as physical or sexual abuse, the loss of a parent at a young age (even through divorce), being the victim of a violent crime, etc., can produce more salient effects.

• #21 Health Risks of Alcohol: Problems Caused By Chronic Heavy Drinking

  https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/addiction-heavy-drinking

  Alcohol affects the brains communication pathways. This makes it harder for you to think and speak clearly, remember things, make decisions, and move your body. Heavy drinking also can cause mental health issues like depression and dementia. You may get painful nerve damage that may linger long after you sober up. […] There is a clear link between heavy alcohol use and many types of cancers. Alcohol can damage the cells in your mouth, throat, voice box, and esophagus. It can lead to cancers in your liver, breast, and intestines. Alcohol can help cancer-causing chemicals in tobacco and other sources enter your cells more easily. […] Long-term alcohol abuse may raise your chances for epilepsy. And alcohol withdrawal after heavy drinking can cause seizures. […] Heavy drinking can hamper your immune cells from fighting off viruses and bacteria. It also can harm your liver, which plays an important role in your immune system by making antibacterial proteins.

• #22 Alcohol use disorder – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alcohol-use-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20369243

  Genetic, psychological, social and environmental factors can impact how drinking alcohol affects your body and behavior. Theories suggest that for certain people drinking has a different and stronger impact that can lead to alcohol use disorder. […] Over time, drinking too much alcohol may change the normal function of the areas of your brain associated with the experience of pleasure, judgment and the ability to exercise control over your behavior. This may result in craving alcohol to try to restore good feelings or reduce negative ones.

• #23 What is alcohol use disorder? How to treat alcoholism

  https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/157163

  Alcohol dependence develops over time and can disrupt the balance of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain and glutamate. GABA controls impulsiveness, while glutamate stimulates the nervous system. […] In the brain, levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine rise after consuming alcohol. These heightened dopamine levels may make the drinking experience more gratifying. […] Over the long or medium term, excessive drinking can significantly alter the levels of these brain chemicals. This causes the body to crave alcohol to feel good and avoid feeling bad. […] Some risk factors may also contribute to AUD, including: Genes: According to the NIH, genetic factors account for around half the risk of AUD. Environmental factors and interaction between genes and the environment account for the remaining risk.

• #24 What is alcohol use disorder? How to treat alcoholism

  https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/157163

  Alcohol dependence develops over time and can disrupt the balance of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain and glutamate. GABA controls impulsiveness, while glutamate stimulates the nervous system. […] In the brain, levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine rise after consuming alcohol. These heightened dopamine levels may make the drinking experience more gratifying. […] Over the long or medium term, excessive drinking can significantly alter the levels of these brain chemicals. This causes the body to crave alcohol to feel good and avoid feeling bad. […] Some risk factors may also contribute to AUD, including: Genes: According to the NIH, genetic factors account for around half the risk of AUD. Environmental factors and interaction between genes and the environment account for the remaining risk.

• #25 What is alcohol use disorder? How to treat alcoholism

  https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/157163

  Alcohol dependence develops over time and can disrupt the balance of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain and glutamate. GABA controls impulsiveness, while glutamate stimulates the nervous system. […] In the brain, levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine rise after consuming alcohol. These heightened dopamine levels may make the drinking experience more gratifying. […] Over the long or medium term, excessive drinking can significantly alter the levels of these brain chemicals. This causes the body to crave alcohol to feel good and avoid feeling bad. […] Some risk factors may also contribute to AUD, including: Genes: According to the NIH, genetic factors account for around half the risk of AUD. Environmental factors and interaction between genes and the environment account for the remaining risk.

• #26 Understanding the Underlying Causes of Alcoholism

  https://northstarrecoverycenter.com/understanding-the-underlying-causes-of-alcoholism/

  Alcoholism is often intertwined with co-occurring mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or bipolar disorder. This complex relationship is known as a dual diagnosis or a co-occurring disorder. Individuals who struggle with mental health issues may turn to alcohol as a means of self-medication, attempting to alleviate their emotional pain or distress temporarily. […] Alcohol consumption can have profound effects on the brain, altering its chemistry and impacting various neurotransmitters responsible for mood regulation, reward processing, and impulse control. Repeated alcohol use can lead to changes in the brains reward system, resulting in increased cravings and a reduced ability to experience pleasure from other activities. […] Childhood trauma and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have been linked to a higher risk of developing alcoholism in adulthood. ACEs can include physical or emotional abuse, neglect, household substance abuse, parental incarceration, or witnessing domestic violence. These experiences can have lasting effects on an individuals emotional well-being and coping mechanisms.

• #27 Understanding the Underlying Causes of Alcoholism

  https://northstarrecoverycenter.com/understanding-the-underlying-causes-of-alcoholism/

  One of the fundamental aspects of alcoholism lies in the genetic predisposition that some individuals may inherit from their family members. Numerous studies have shown a strong genetic component in the development of alcohol use disorder. Individuals with a family history of alcoholism are at a higher risk of developing the condition themselves. This suggests that certain genetic factors may influence an individuals response to alcohol, affecting their tolerance levels and susceptibility to addiction. […] While genetics play a significant role, environmental factors also contribute to the development of alcoholism. The environment in which an individual grows up and lives can significantly influence their relationship with alcohol. Factors such as family dynamics, peer pressure, social and cultural norms surrounding alcohol use, and exposure to trauma or stress can all contribute to the development of alcohol use disorder.

• #28 Causes of Alcohol Addiction and Alcoholism – Priory

  https://www.priorygroup.com/addiction-treatment/alcohol-rehab/causes-of-alcoholism

  There are a number of potential causes and risk factors for alcoholism. These include: […] You are at increased risk of developing alcohol addiction if you have a close family member with an addiction, such as a parent or sibling. Research suggests that there are significant genetic factors and hereditary elements of alcohol addiction. […] Stressful life events have also been linked to someone developing an alcohol addiction. Examples might include going through a bereavement, losing your job, experiencing a traumatic event or struggling with financial problems. […] Experiencing abuse or neglect, especially if this happened when you were a child, can also increase your risk of developing alcoholism in later life. […] There are a number of social factors that may also contribute to the chances of you becoming an alcoholic.

• #29 Alcoholism – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alcoholism

  Causes Environmental and genetic factors. […] The development of alcoholism is attributed to both environment and genetics equally. […] The use of alcohol to self-medicate stress or anxiety can turn into alcoholism. […] Someone with a parent or sibling with an alcohol use disorder is three to four times more likely to develop an alcohol use disorder themselves, but only a minority of them do. […] High stress levels and anxiety, as well as alcohol’s inexpensive cost and easy accessibility, increase the risk. […] There is compelling evidence that alcohol use at an early age may influence the expression of genes which increase the risk of alcohol dependence. […] Severe childhood trauma is also associated with a general increase in the risk of drug dependency. […] Lack of peer and family support is associated with an increased risk of alcoholism developing. […] Genetics and adolescence are associated with an increased sensitivity to the neurotoxic effects of chronic alcohol misuse. […] The use of cannabis was associated with later problems with alcohol use. […] Alcohol is the most available, widely consumed, and widely misused recreational drug.

• #30 Understanding the Underlying Causes of Alcoholism

  https://northstarrecoverycenter.com/understanding-the-underlying-causes-of-alcoholism/

  Social and peer influence can also significantly impact an individuals alcohol consumption patterns. Peer pressure, the desire to fit in with a particular social group, or the influence of friends or colleagues who engage in heavy drinking can all contribute to increased alcohol use. […] Alcoholism is a complex and multifaceted disorder with many underlying causes. Genetic predisposition, environmental factors, co-occurring mental health disorders, neurological changes, childhood trauma, and social influences all contribute to the development of alcohol use disorder. Recognizing and understanding these underlying factors is essential in creating effective prevention, intervention, and treatment strategies for individuals struggling with alcoholism.

• #31 Alcoholism – Genetics, Environment, Abuse | Britannica

  https://www.britannica.com/science/alcoholism/Causes-of-alcoholism

  Certain psychiatric conditions also increase the risk of alcoholism: they include attention deficit disorder, panic disorder, schizophrenia, and, especially, antisocial disorder. Easy availability also increases risk. […] Finally, persons who are unemployed or who have occupations with irregular working hours (e.g., writers) or close sustained contact with alcohol (e.g., diplomats and bartenders) may be prone to the development of alcoholism.

• #32 Alcohol Use Disorder: Symptoms, Causes And Treatment

  https://valleyspringrecovery.com/addiction/alcohol/

  Environmental factors, such as exposure to stressful environments, traumatic experiences, or growing up in households where alcohol use is common can increase the likelihood of developing AUD. […] Psychological factors and mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders are often linked to alcohol abuse as individuals use alcohol as a form of self-medication. […] Social and cultural factors that promote heavy drinking, such as the acceptance of alcohol consumption or living in communities with high alcohol use, can significantly influence the development of AUD. […] Alcohol’s effect on brain chemistry, particularly on neurotransmitters like dopamine and GABA, plays a crucial role in addiction. […] Drinking alcohol at a young age increases the chances of developing AUD later in life. […] Friends or acquaintances that encourage excessive drinking, especially among young adults, can lead to the development of unhealthy drinking habits. […] Easy access to alcohol, especially living in communities where alcohol is widely available, can increase the risk of Alcohol Use Disorder.

• #33 What is alcohol use disorder? How to treat alcoholism

  https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/157163

  The age of the first alcoholic drink: People who start drinking alcohol before the age of 15 years may be 3 times as likely to develop AUD as people who begin drinking at the age of 21 years or older. […] Stress: Some stress hormones may have links to alcohol misuse. If stress and anxiety levels are high, a person may consume alcohol in an attempt to blank out the upheaval. […] Peer drinking: People whose friends drink regularly or excessively are more likely to drink too much. This can eventually lead to alcohol-related problems. […] Low self-esteem: People with low self-esteem are more likely to consume too much. […] Depression: People with depression may use alcohol as self-treatment. On the other hand, consuming excess alcohol may increase the risk of depression rather than reducing it. […] How the body processes or metabolizes alcohol: People who need comparatively more alcohol to achieve an effect have a higher risk of eventually developing health problems related to alcohol.

• #34 Alcoholism | Alcohol Addiction Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment

  https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/alcohol-abuse/causes-alcoholism/

  Upbringing contributes via involvement with peers as well, and the age at which a person begins drinking. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism reports that individuals who first use alcohol before age 15 are four times more likely to suffer from alcohol dependence. Also, parents who downplay the alcohol use contribute to the normalization of alcohol abuse and the development of the disease. […] Mental health plays a significant role in all forms of substance abuse. About half of people with a mental health condition will also have a substance use disorder in their lifetime. Among adolescents with serious mental health conditions, more than 60% also use substances and can have a substance use disorder like alcoholism. […] Using alcohol to treat mental health symptoms is a significant risk factor for the development of alcoholism. People with a mental illness often self-medicate with alcohol to cover up the symptoms of their disorder. When people with mental health conditions self-medicate with alcohol, it lengthens the time before their mental illness is caught and treated by professionals.

• #35 Causes of Alcohol Addiction and Alcoholism – Priory

  https://www.priorygroup.com/addiction-treatment/alcohol-rehab/causes-of-alcoholism

  The age you start drinking can also have an impact on your chances of struggling with addiction. […] According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), the younger the age of drinking onset, the greater the chance of you developing an alcohol use disorder in the future. […] Ultimately, people become alcoholics because of a process known as positive reinforcement. […] In the context of alcoholism, drinking can cause you to experience positive outcomes such as feeling confident, relaxed and carefree, which can mean that you want to drink alcohol over and over again to feel the same effects. […] Research also shows that men are more likely than women to become alcoholics. […] In addition, a review by Lancet Psychiatry found that people who are already struggling with a mental health condition, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, may be at greater risk of developing alcohol addiction.

• #36 Alcoholism: Symptoms, Causes, & Risks

  https://www.alcoholhelp.com/alcohol/alcoholism/

  The earlier you begin drinking alcohol, the more likely it is you may develop alcoholism. Drinking before or during adolescence leads to other risky behaviors and mental health disorders. Alcohol changes how the brain functions. Since the brain is still in development during the teen years, alcohol may alter it in a way that is not reversible. […] Coping with a mental health disorder may be the reason you start drinking alcohol. While this may work temporarily, eventually, your mental health symptoms will likely worsen, or you may develop new symptoms. Anxiety and depression are common mental illnesses that co-occur with alcoholism. […] If you have experienced trauma, especially in your childhood, you are at risk for developing an alcohol use disorder. Trauma may include sexual, physical, or emotional abuse. It may also involve surviving war combat, natural disasters, or the death of a loved one.

• #37 Alcoholism: Symptoms, Causes, & Risks

  https://www.alcoholhelp.com/alcohol/alcoholism/

  The earlier you begin drinking alcohol, the more likely it is you may develop alcoholism. Drinking before or during adolescence leads to other risky behaviors and mental health disorders. Alcohol changes how the brain functions. Since the brain is still in development during the teen years, alcohol may alter it in a way that is not reversible. […] Coping with a mental health disorder may be the reason you start drinking alcohol. While this may work temporarily, eventually, your mental health symptoms will likely worsen, or you may develop new symptoms. Anxiety and depression are common mental illnesses that co-occur with alcoholism. […] If you have experienced trauma, especially in your childhood, you are at risk for developing an alcohol use disorder. Trauma may include sexual, physical, or emotional abuse. It may also involve surviving war combat, natural disasters, or the death of a loved one.

• #38 Alcohol Addiction | Causes, Symptoms and Diagnosis

  https://www.uk-rehab.com/alcohol-addiction/

  Environmental influences, including family, peer pressure, and cultural norms, can contribute to the development of alcohol addiction. Exposure to a culture that normalises heavy drinking or experiencing stressors in the environment may increase the likelihood of alcohol misuse. […] Individuals who start drinking at an early age may be more susceptible to developing alcohol addiction. Early alcohol exposure can impact brain development and increase the risk of developing a dependency. […] Certain personality traits, such as impulsivity, risk-taking behaviour, and sensation-seeking, may contribute to the development of alcohol addiction. Individuals with these traits may be more likely to engage in risky drinking behaviours. […] Alcohol directly impacts the brains reward system and can lead to changes in neural pathways. Over time, the brain may become dependent on alcohol to release neurotransmitters associated with pleasure. […] With continued and heavy alcohol use, physical dependence can develop. The body may adapt to the presence of alcohol, and withdrawal symptoms may occur when a person tries to quit or cut down on drinking, making it challenging to break the cycle of addiction.

• #39 Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder | National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)

  https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/understanding-alcohol-use-disorder

  Alcohol misuse defined as drinking in a manner, situation, amount, or frequency that could cause harm to the person who drinks or to those around them over time increases the risk of AUD. […] Genetics play a role, with hereditability accounting for approximately 60%. However, like other chronic health conditions, AUD risk is influenced by the interplay between a person’s genes and their environment. […] A wide range of psychiatric conditions including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are comorbid with AUD and are associated with an increased risk of AUD.

• #40 Alcohol Use Disorder: What It Is, Symptoms & Treatment

  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/3909-alcoholism

  What causes alcohol use disorder? Researchers dont know all the reasons why someone develops it, but have identified the following factors: […] Genetics: Studies show people with a family history of alcohol use disorder have an increased risk of developing it. […] Mental health conditions: Having conditions like depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may increase your risk of alcohol use disorder.

• #41 Causes of Alcoholism – Is Alcoholism Hereditary? – Alcohol Help

  https://www.alcoholhelp.com/alcohol/causes/

  For example, people with high stress, anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions are more vulnerable to developing alcoholism. In these types of circumstances, alcohol is often used to suppress feelings and relieve the symptoms of psychological disorders. […] Over time, drinking can become habitual and lead to an AUD. The more you turn to alcohol to ease feelings of pain and hardship, the more your body becomes tolerant to the drug and relies on its effects. Co-occurring alcohol abuse and mental health conditions, like depression, bipolar and schizophrenia, can cause an array of serious side effects. […] Growing up around family members and close relatives that suffer from alcoholism increases the risk of alcohol abuse for generations to come. […] When drinking too much becomes a pattern, you greatly increase your chances of developing an alcohol-related problem. The more you drink, the more your body builds a tolerance to alcohol.

• #42 Alcohol dependence

  https://www.drinkaware.co.uk/facts/health-effects-of-alcohol/mental-health/alcohol-dependence

  What causes alcohol dependence? […] Usually, several different factors contribute to someone becoming alcohol dependent. The society and environment that you live in plays an important role in how likely you are to develop problems with alcohol. For example, how easily available alcohol is, how much it costs, and pressure from friends, family or colleagues to drink. […] And alcohol dependence can run in families. Its partly down to your genes, but is also influenced by your familys attitudes to alcohol and the environment you grow up in. […] Stressful events, such as bereavement or losing a job, can also trigger heavy drinking in some people, which can then lead to alcohol dependence. […] People who are alcohol dependent have higher rates of other mental health problems than the general population particularly depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, psychosis and drug misuse. […] Often, people drink to try and reduce symptoms (sometimes known as self-medicating), but in the long-term alcohol makes these disorders worse because it interferes with the chemical balance in our brains.

• #43 Alcohol Use Disorder: Definition, Symptoms, Traits, Causes, Treatment

  https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-alcohol-abuse-63273

  History of trauma: Childhood trauma, including emotional abuse, sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional neglect, and physical neglect, have all been linked to an increased risk for an AUD in adulthood. […] Psychiatric disorders: People with a mental health disorder such as anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder have been found to have higher rates of misusing alcohol or other substances. In fact, studies show that over one-third of patients with schizophrenia meet the criteria for an AUD diagnosis. […] Social and cultural influences: Having parents, peers, partners, and other role models who drink regularly may increase a person’s risk of developing an AUD, especially if the person is exposed to heavy drinking at a young age.

• #44 Alcoholism Clinical Presentation: History, Physical, Causes

  https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/285913-clinical

  Patients commonly use a psychiatric disorder to deny alcohol abuse. […] Genetic psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, are associated with alcoholism. […] The presence of both a serious, persistent mental illness and alcoholism is called dual diagnosis. […] Family history commonly reveals members with bipolar disorder, alcoholism, or both. […] Despite this and despite an intensive search for a gene for alcoholism, study results remain inconclusive. […] Nevertheless, some evidence indicates that genetics plays a major role in alcohol abuse. […] Identical twins have a higher concordance for drinking behavior and possibly alcoholism than fraternal twins. […] Whether reared by biologic or adoptive parents, sons of males with alcoholic problems are 4 times more likely to have problems with alcohol than sons of persons who are not.

• #45 What Causes Drug or Alcohol Addiction? | Footprints to Recovery

  https://footprintstorecovery.com/drug-addiction/underlying-causes/

  The link between trauma and substance abuse is strong. Types of trauma that can contribute to alcohol abuse and drug addiction include: Assault, Rape, Military combat, Physical or sexual abuse, Natural disasters, Witnessing traumatic events. Emotional trauma from childhood like abuse and neglect can also trigger drug and alcoholism and alcohol abuse later in life. […] Growing up in an environment where drinking was common can predict problem drinking later in life. For example, some research shows that if your parents regularly drank alcohol and had permissive attitudes around alcohol, you’re more likely to drink. […] Researchers found that being asked to drink or smoke by friends is one of the strongest predictors of substance use in adolescents — even outweighing parenting styles or parental drinking behaviors.

• #46 Alcohol use disorder: MedlinePlus Medical EncyclopediaLock

  https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000944.htm

  Drinking may mask depression or other mood or anxiety disorders. If you have a mood disorder, it may become more noticeable when you stop drinking. Your provider will treat any mental disorders in addition to your alcohol treatment. […] Drinking significantly may also cause depression and anxiety. You need to stop drinking for at least a month to see if these symptoms get better and do not need further treatment.

• #47 Causes of Alcoholism: “Why Am I An Alcoholic?”

  https://www.palmerlakerecovery.com/alcohol-abuse-and-addiction/why-am-i-an-alcoholic/

  The earlier a person begins experimenting with alcohol, the higher the risk of an alcohol use disorder. […] Research shows that those who begin drinking in the early to mid teen years are more likely to develop problems with alcohol. […] Due to the physiological influence of alcohol in the brain, people who regularly drink alcohol will disrupt their normal brain functioning, resulting in a higher risk of addiction. […] People who have experienced physical, emotional or sexual abuse or other forms of trauma are at higher risk for alcoholism. […] When people live, work or socialize with drinkers, they are more likely to drink themselves. […] Some cultures may normalize or even celebrate drinking, which leads to increased levels of alcohol consumption and increased numbers of alcohol use disorders.

• #48 Causes of Alcohol Addiction | Understanding the Causes

  https://bocarecoverycenter.com/alcohol/causes/

  Living in an environment in which alcohol abuse or addiction is common increases the likelihood of developing an addiction due to normalization of the behavior. […] People experiencing financial insecurity, unemployment, or limited resources may experience higher stress levels and turn to alcohol as a form of relief, increasing their chances of addiction. […] People may turn to alcohol as a way to self-medicate the discomfort caused by overwhelming stress, trauma, or emotional pain. People with a history of trauma are more likely to have alcohol abuse and addiction issues. […] Alcohol addiction often stems from experiencing both positive and negative reinforcement simultaneously. Positive reinforcement occurs when alcohol produces pleasurable effects, while negative reinforcement occurs when stopping use triggers withdrawal symptoms. The combination of factors encourages continued use.

• #49 Understanding the Underlying Causes of Alcoholism

  https://northstarrecoverycenter.com/understanding-the-underlying-causes-of-alcoholism/

  Alcoholism is often intertwined with co-occurring mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or bipolar disorder. This complex relationship is known as a dual diagnosis or a co-occurring disorder. Individuals who struggle with mental health issues may turn to alcohol as a means of self-medication, attempting to alleviate their emotional pain or distress temporarily. […] Alcohol consumption can have profound effects on the brain, altering its chemistry and impacting various neurotransmitters responsible for mood regulation, reward processing, and impulse control. Repeated alcohol use can lead to changes in the brains reward system, resulting in increased cravings and a reduced ability to experience pleasure from other activities. […] Childhood trauma and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have been linked to a higher risk of developing alcoholism in adulthood. ACEs can include physical or emotional abuse, neglect, household substance abuse, parental incarceration, or witnessing domestic violence. These experiences can have lasting effects on an individuals emotional well-being and coping mechanisms.

• #50 Alcoholism: Causes, Risk Factors, and Symptoms

  https://www.healthline.com/health/alcoholism/basics

  The cause of alcohol use disorder is still unknown. Alcohol use disorder develops when you drink so much that chemical changes in the brain occur. These changes increase the pleasurable feelings you get when you drink alcohol. This makes you want to drink more often, even if it causes harm. […] Alcohol use disorder typically develops gradually over time. Its also known to run in families. […] Although the exact cause of alcohol use disorder is unknown, there are certain factors that may increase your risk for developing this disease. […] Alcohol use disorder can cause serious and lasting damage to your liver. Your liver is responsible for removing toxins from your blood. When you drink too much, your liver has a harder time filtering the alcohol and other toxins from your bloodstream. This can lead to liver disease and other complications.

• #51 Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD): MedlinePlus

  https://medlineplus.gov/alcoholusedisorderaud.html

  For most adults, moderate alcohol use is probably not harmful. However, about 18 million adult Americans have an alcohol use disorder (AUD). This means that their drinking causes distress and harm. AUD can range from mild to severe, depending on the symptoms. Severe AUD is sometimes called alcoholism or alcohol dependence. […] AUD is a disease that causes: Craving – a strong need to drink, Loss of control – not being able to stop drinking once you’ve started, Negative emotional state – feeling anxious and irritable when you are not drinking. […] The more symptoms you have, the more serious the problem is.

• #52 10 Common Causes of Alcoholism

  https://compassionbehavioralhealth.com/10-common-causes-of-alcoholism/

  People who are experiencing other mental health conditions like bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, OCD or anxiety can be at an elevated risk for developing alcoholism as a co-occurring disorder. […] Any number of traumatic experiences can place a person at risk for developing an alcohol disorder. […] These practices are highly maladaptive and can progress to alcoholism the more a person forms an emotional dependence. […] The more frequently a person drinks, the more their tolerance may rise. This then requires a person to consume more alcohol in a single sitting to produce the desired buzz. After a period of this repeated behavior, it can develop into alcoholism.

• #53

  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/alcohol-misuse/

  Alcohol misuse is when you drink in a way that’s harmful, or when you’re dependent on alcohol. […] Persistent alcohol misuse increases your risk of serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, liver disease, liver cancer, bowel cancer, mouth cancer, breast cancer, pancreatitis, and damage to the brain, which can lead to problems with thinking and memory. […] As well as causing serious health problems, long-term alcohol misuse can lead to social problems for some people, such as unemployment, divorce, domestic abuse, and homelessness. […] If someone loses control over their drinking and has an excessive desire to drink, it’s known as dependent drinking (alcoholism). […] A dependent drinker usually experiences physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms if they suddenly cut down or stop drinking, including hand tremors, sweating, seeing things that are not real, depression, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. […] This often leads to „relief drinking” to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

• #54

  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/alcohol-misuse/

  Alcohol misuse is when you drink in a way that’s harmful, or when you’re dependent on alcohol. […] Persistent alcohol misuse increases your risk of serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, liver disease, liver cancer, bowel cancer, mouth cancer, breast cancer, pancreatitis, and damage to the brain, which can lead to problems with thinking and memory. […] As well as causing serious health problems, long-term alcohol misuse can lead to social problems for some people, such as unemployment, divorce, domestic abuse, and homelessness. […] If someone loses control over their drinking and has an excessive desire to drink, it’s known as dependent drinking (alcoholism). […] A dependent drinker usually experiences physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms if they suddenly cut down or stop drinking, including hand tremors, sweating, seeing things that are not real, depression, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. […] This often leads to „relief drinking” to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

• #55

  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/alcohol-misuse/

  Alcohol misuse is when you drink in a way that’s harmful, or when you’re dependent on alcohol. […] Persistent alcohol misuse increases your risk of serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, liver disease, liver cancer, bowel cancer, mouth cancer, breast cancer, pancreatitis, and damage to the brain, which can lead to problems with thinking and memory. […] As well as causing serious health problems, long-term alcohol misuse can lead to social problems for some people, such as unemployment, divorce, domestic abuse, and homelessness. […] If someone loses control over their drinking and has an excessive desire to drink, it’s known as dependent drinking (alcoholism). […] A dependent drinker usually experiences physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms if they suddenly cut down or stop drinking, including hand tremors, sweating, seeing things that are not real, depression, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. […] This often leads to „relief drinking” to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

• #56 Causes of Alcohol Addiction and Alcoholism – Priory

  https://www.priorygroup.com/addiction-treatment/alcohol-rehab/causes-of-alcoholism

  The age you start drinking can also have an impact on your chances of struggling with addiction. […] According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), the younger the age of drinking onset, the greater the chance of you developing an alcohol use disorder in the future. […] Ultimately, people become alcoholics because of a process known as positive reinforcement. […] In the context of alcoholism, drinking can cause you to experience positive outcomes such as feeling confident, relaxed and carefree, which can mean that you want to drink alcohol over and over again to feel the same effects. […] Research also shows that men are more likely than women to become alcoholics. […] In addition, a review by Lancet Psychiatry found that people who are already struggling with a mental health condition, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, may be at greater risk of developing alcohol addiction.

• #57 Causes of Alcohol Addiction | Understanding the Causes

  https://bocarecoverycenter.com/alcohol/causes/

  While there is no single cause of alcohol addiction, nor is there a guarantee that addiction will develop if risk factors are present, there are several correlative circumstances and factors that have been identified as common among people and families who struggle with addiction. These risk factors are biological, environmental, social, and psychological. […] Certain risk factors for alcohol addiction can’t be controlled, such as genetic risk factors. Other types of biological risk factors develop. […] Neurochemical imbalances, including low dopamine levels and changes in serotonin levels, may also play a part in the development of alcohol abuse and addiction. […] Long-term alcohol abuse alters the structure and function of cells in the brain and shrinks the size of the prefrontal cortex. This hinders decision-making ability and increases the risk of addiction.

• #58 What is alcohol use disorder? How to treat alcoholism

  https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/157163

  Alcohol dependence develops over time and can disrupt the balance of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain and glutamate. GABA controls impulsiveness, while glutamate stimulates the nervous system. […] In the brain, levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine rise after consuming alcohol. These heightened dopamine levels may make the drinking experience more gratifying. […] Over the long or medium term, excessive drinking can significantly alter the levels of these brain chemicals. This causes the body to crave alcohol to feel good and avoid feeling bad. […] Some risk factors may also contribute to AUD, including: Genes: According to the NIH, genetic factors account for around half the risk of AUD. Environmental factors and interaction between genes and the environment account for the remaining risk.

• #59 Alcohol Use Disorder > Fact Sheets > Yale Medicine

  https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/alcohol-use-disorder

  Chronic brain disease characterized by continued alcohol use despite harmful consequences. […] Symptoms include loss of control over alcohol use; social, economic, or health problems caused by drinking. […] Alcohol use disorder is a chronic and sometimes relapsing condition that reflects changes in the brain. […] People who have AUD may continue to use alcohol even though they know it is causing social, health, economic, and possibly even legal problems in their life. […] It is important to remember that AUD is not due to an individuals lack of self-discipline or resolve. Rather, it is a brain disease that can be inherited. Long-term alcohol use can produce changes in the brain that can cause people to crave alcohol, lose control of their drinking and require greater quantities of alcohol to achieve its desired effects.

• #60 Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD): MedlinePlus

  https://medlineplus.gov/alcoholusedisorderaud.html

  For most adults, moderate alcohol use is probably not harmful. However, about 18 million adult Americans have an alcohol use disorder (AUD). This means that their drinking causes distress and harm. AUD can range from mild to severe, depending on the symptoms. Severe AUD is sometimes called alcoholism or alcohol dependence. […] AUD is a disease that causes: Craving – a strong need to drink, Loss of control – not being able to stop drinking once you’ve started, Negative emotional state – feeling anxious and irritable when you are not drinking. […] The more symptoms you have, the more serious the problem is.

• #61 Causes of Alcohol Addiction | Understanding the Causes

  https://bocarecoverycenter.com/alcohol/causes/

  Living in an environment in which alcohol abuse or addiction is common increases the likelihood of developing an addiction due to normalization of the behavior. […] People experiencing financial insecurity, unemployment, or limited resources may experience higher stress levels and turn to alcohol as a form of relief, increasing their chances of addiction. […] People may turn to alcohol as a way to self-medicate the discomfort caused by overwhelming stress, trauma, or emotional pain. People with a history of trauma are more likely to have alcohol abuse and addiction issues. […] Alcohol addiction often stems from experiencing both positive and negative reinforcement simultaneously. Positive reinforcement occurs when alcohol produces pleasurable effects, while negative reinforcement occurs when stopping use triggers withdrawal symptoms. The combination of factors encourages continued use.

• #62 Alcoholism Clinical Presentation: History, Physical, Causes

  https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/285913-clinical

  Behavioral models explain alcohol abuse in terms of learning theory. […] Cognitive models explain alcohol abuse in terms of automatic thoughts, which precede the persons more identifiable feelings about alcohol. […] Psychoanalytic models explain alcohol abuse in terms of ego defenses and intrapsychic conflicts.

• #63 Alcohol Use Disorder > Fact Sheets > Yale Medicine

  https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/alcohol-use-disorder

  Chronic brain disease characterized by continued alcohol use despite harmful consequences. […] Symptoms include loss of control over alcohol use; social, economic, or health problems caused by drinking. […] Alcohol use disorder is a chronic and sometimes relapsing condition that reflects changes in the brain. […] People who have AUD may continue to use alcohol even though they know it is causing social, health, economic, and possibly even legal problems in their life. […] It is important to remember that AUD is not due to an individuals lack of self-discipline or resolve. Rather, it is a brain disease that can be inherited. Long-term alcohol use can produce changes in the brain that can cause people to crave alcohol, lose control of their drinking and require greater quantities of alcohol to achieve its desired effects.

• #64 Alcoholism Causes and Risk Factors

  https://www.addictionhelper.com/alcohol/alcoholism-causes-risk-factors/

  Many studies have looked into the causes of alcoholism and its associated risk factors. Family history and genetics have been identified as playing a significant role in the development of an alcohol problem. However, its widely accepted that a broad variety of factors influence alcohol abuse. […] The relationship between genetics and alcoholism is yet to be fully understood. Scientists are aware that genetics affect different aspects of alcoholism, such as the severity of hangovers, how quickly alcohol is broken down, and so on. Please note that genetics alone wont determine whether youll be an alcoholic or not, as many factors interact to influence that. […] One of the major reasons for developing a drinking problem is the existence of a psychological condition or mood disorder, such as anxiety or depression.

• #65 Alcoholism Definition, Signs, Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

  https://www.emedicinehealth.com/alcoholism/article_em.htm

  People with alcohol use disorder are unable to stop drinking alcohol. […] Alcohol problems vary in severity from mild to life threatening and affect the individual, the person’s family, and society in numerous adverse ways. […] What are the causes and effects of alcoholism? […] The cause of alcoholism is not well-established. There is growing evidence for genetic and biologic predispositions for this disease. […] Usually, a variety of factors contribute to the development of a problem with alcohol. Social factors such as the influence of family, peers, and society, and the availability of alcohol, and psychological factors such as elevated levels of stress, inadequate coping mechanisms, and reinforcement of alcohol use from other drinkers can contribute to alcoholism. […] While it may not be causative, twice as many men are alcohol dependent.

• #66 What Causes Alcohol Use Disorder? Risk Factors & Treatment

  https://alcoholrehabhelp.org/addiction/alcoholism/causes/

  High stress levels increase your risk of addiction. […] Genetics plays a prominent role in problem drinking. Genetic mental illnesses also increase your likelihood of developing an addiction. […] A history of emotional or physical trauma can increase the risk of AUD. […] Alcohol can be a method of self-medication for those with mental health conditions, potentially leading to alcohol addiction. […] AUD affects men more than women. […] When you engage in frequent alcohol consumption, your body develops a tolerance, and a dependence forms over time.

• #67 What Causes Alcohol Use Disorder? Risk Factors & Treatment

  https://alcoholrehabhelp.org/addiction/alcoholism/causes/

  People with other mental health conditions often drink alcohol to relieve unpleasant symptoms. […] A persons poor coping skills regarding stress, negative feelings, and boredom can make them vulnerable to alcohol addiction. […] Growing up around people with addiction predisposes someone to develop an AUD. […] Alcoholism can also develop in people who drink in social situations, such as college students. […] Binge drinking, which is common amongst college students, is a harmful drinking pattern that makes someones blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level rise to 0.08% or higher. […] Drinking from an early age increases the risk of developing an AUD later in life. […] Environmental factors, like pressure from friends, family, and media, can contribute to excessive alcohol consumption and addiction.

• #68 What is alcohol use disorder? How to treat alcoholism

  https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/157163

  The age of the first alcoholic drink: People who start drinking alcohol before the age of 15 years may be 3 times as likely to develop AUD as people who begin drinking at the age of 21 years or older. […] Stress: Some stress hormones may have links to alcohol misuse. If stress and anxiety levels are high, a person may consume alcohol in an attempt to blank out the upheaval. […] Peer drinking: People whose friends drink regularly or excessively are more likely to drink too much. This can eventually lead to alcohol-related problems. […] Low self-esteem: People with low self-esteem are more likely to consume too much. […] Depression: People with depression may use alcohol as self-treatment. On the other hand, consuming excess alcohol may increase the risk of depression rather than reducing it. […] How the body processes or metabolizes alcohol: People who need comparatively more alcohol to achieve an effect have a higher risk of eventually developing health problems related to alcohol.

• #69 Causes of Alcoholism: “Why Am I An Alcoholic?”

  https://www.palmerlakerecovery.com/alcohol-abuse-and-addiction/why-am-i-an-alcoholic/

  The earlier a person begins experimenting with alcohol, the higher the risk of an alcohol use disorder. […] Research shows that those who begin drinking in the early to mid teen years are more likely to develop problems with alcohol. […] Due to the physiological influence of alcohol in the brain, people who regularly drink alcohol will disrupt their normal brain functioning, resulting in a higher risk of addiction. […] People who have experienced physical, emotional or sexual abuse or other forms of trauma are at higher risk for alcoholism. […] When people live, work or socialize with drinkers, they are more likely to drink themselves. […] Some cultures may normalize or even celebrate drinking, which leads to increased levels of alcohol consumption and increased numbers of alcohol use disorders.

• #70 Causes of Alcohol Addiction | Understanding the Causes

  https://bocarecoverycenter.com/alcohol/causes/

  Living in an environment in which alcohol abuse or addiction is common increases the likelihood of developing an addiction due to normalization of the behavior. […] People experiencing financial insecurity, unemployment, or limited resources may experience higher stress levels and turn to alcohol as a form of relief, increasing their chances of addiction. […] People may turn to alcohol as a way to self-medicate the discomfort caused by overwhelming stress, trauma, or emotional pain. People with a history of trauma are more likely to have alcohol abuse and addiction issues. […] Alcohol addiction often stems from experiencing both positive and negative reinforcement simultaneously. Positive reinforcement occurs when alcohol produces pleasurable effects, while negative reinforcement occurs when stopping use triggers withdrawal symptoms. The combination of factors encourages continued use.

• #71 Understanding Causes of Alcoholism | St. Joseph Institute for Addiction

  https://stjosephinstitute.com/blog/understanding-the-causes-of-alcoholism-how-genes-and-environmental-factors-contribute-to-your-personal-addiction-risk/

  Multiple studies have shown that the younger you are when you take your first drink, the more difficulty you’ll have regulating your alcohol intake. […] Children of alcoholic parents have two to four times the risk of becoming alcoholics as adults. […] This risk factor remains even in cases where the child is adopted and raised in a family where neither parent has an alcohol use disorder. […] However, despite this increased genetic risk, less than half of children with an alcoholic parent grow up to abuse alcohol themselves. […] Having a full understanding of genetic risk factors and the health effects of alcohol abuse is associated with lower levels of problem drinking. […] Feeling loved and supported by the people around you makes you less likely to want to turn to alcohol for comfort.

• #72 Alcoholism – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alcoholism

  Causes Environmental and genetic factors. […] The development of alcoholism is attributed to both environment and genetics equally. […] The use of alcohol to self-medicate stress or anxiety can turn into alcoholism. […] Someone with a parent or sibling with an alcohol use disorder is three to four times more likely to develop an alcohol use disorder themselves, but only a minority of them do. […] High stress levels and anxiety, as well as alcohol’s inexpensive cost and easy accessibility, increase the risk. […] There is compelling evidence that alcohol use at an early age may influence the expression of genes which increase the risk of alcohol dependence. […] Severe childhood trauma is also associated with a general increase in the risk of drug dependency. […] Lack of peer and family support is associated with an increased risk of alcoholism developing. […] Genetics and adolescence are associated with an increased sensitivity to the neurotoxic effects of chronic alcohol misuse. […] The use of cannabis was associated with later problems with alcohol use. […] Alcohol is the most available, widely consumed, and widely misused recreational drug.

• #73 The 10 Most Common Causes of Alcoholism  – Sana Lake – Missouri Alcohol & Drug Rehab

  https://sanalake.com/addiction-resources/the-10-most-common-causes-of-alcoholism/

  Self-medicating also happens when people are too scared to confront their feelings and talk to someone about them. This is part of what causes alcoholism. […] A lack of support can lead to abandonment issues in children, and they may turn to alcohol for comfort. […] If you have a mental health disorder, it’s also tempting to use alcohol to mask your symptoms. The proper course of treatment is to speak with a therapist and determine if medication will help you tackle life’s daily challenges. It can help you address what causes alcoholism in your life.

• #74 What Causes Drug or Alcohol Addiction? | Footprints to Recovery

  https://footprintstorecovery.com/drug-addiction/underlying-causes/

  The link between trauma and substance abuse is strong. Types of trauma that can contribute to alcohol abuse and drug addiction include: Assault, Rape, Military combat, Physical or sexual abuse, Natural disasters, Witnessing traumatic events. Emotional trauma from childhood like abuse and neglect can also trigger drug and alcoholism and alcohol abuse later in life. […] Growing up in an environment where drinking was common can predict problem drinking later in life. For example, some research shows that if your parents regularly drank alcohol and had permissive attitudes around alcohol, you’re more likely to drink. […] Researchers found that being asked to drink or smoke by friends is one of the strongest predictors of substance use in adolescents — even outweighing parenting styles or parental drinking behaviors.

• #75 Causes of Alcohol Addiction | Understanding the Causes

  https://bocarecoverycenter.com/alcohol/causes/

  Living in an environment in which alcohol abuse or addiction is common increases the likelihood of developing an addiction due to normalization of the behavior. […] People experiencing financial insecurity, unemployment, or limited resources may experience higher stress levels and turn to alcohol as a form of relief, increasing their chances of addiction. […] People may turn to alcohol as a way to self-medicate the discomfort caused by overwhelming stress, trauma, or emotional pain. People with a history of trauma are more likely to have alcohol abuse and addiction issues. […] Alcohol addiction often stems from experiencing both positive and negative reinforcement simultaneously. Positive reinforcement occurs when alcohol produces pleasurable effects, while negative reinforcement occurs when stopping use triggers withdrawal symptoms. The combination of factors encourages continued use.

• #76 Causes And Risk Factors Of Alcoholism

  https://www.addictioncenter.com/alcohol/alcoholism-causes-risk-factors/

  An individuals age strongly influences the likelihood of alcohol abuse. […] The more highly educated an individual is, the more likely they are to consume alcohol. […] Certain professions are more likely to develop alcoholism than others. […] No matter how many risk factors are present in an alcoholics life, alcohol addiction treatment is available and recovery is possible. Its critical to remember that no risk factor is determinative, and your history does not decide your future.

• #77 Alcoholism Causes and Risk Factors

  https://www.addictionhelper.com/alcohol/alcoholism-causes-risk-factors/

  Your age can put you at greater risk of developing an unhealthy drinking habit. […] Your likelihood of developing a drinking problem increases the more highly educated you are. […] Your job can also influence the risk of becoming an alcoholic, as some professions are more likely to contribute to the development of alcoholism than others. […] While youre more likely to become an alcoholic if you have a parent who is one, hereditary factors alone cannot cause you to suffer an alcohol dependency problem. […] The causes of alcoholism include environmental, social, genetic, and psychological factors. They can all contribute to your drinking habit, as well as how drinking affects your behaviour and body. […] People most likely to develop alcoholism are those who are most exposed to the risk factors. That would include, most obviously, people who drink too much for an extended period of time.

• #78 Alcoholism – Genetics, Environment, Abuse | Britannica

  https://www.britannica.com/science/alcoholism/Causes-of-alcoholism

  Certain psychiatric conditions also increase the risk of alcoholism: they include attention deficit disorder, panic disorder, schizophrenia, and, especially, antisocial disorder. Easy availability also increases risk. […] Finally, persons who are unemployed or who have occupations with irregular working hours (e.g., writers) or close sustained contact with alcohol (e.g., diplomats and bartenders) may be prone to the development of alcoholism.

• #79 Alcohol use disorder: MedlinePlus Medical EncyclopediaLock

  https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000944.htm

  Alcohol use disorder is when your drinking causes serious problems in your life, yet you keep drinking. You may also need more and more alcohol to feel drunk. Stopping suddenly may cause withdrawal symptoms. […] No one knows what causes problems with alcohol. Health experts think that it may be a combination of a person’s: Genes, Environment, Psychology, such as being impulsive or having low self-esteem. […] If you have a parent with alcohol use disorder, you are more at risk for alcohol problems. […] You also may be more likely to have problems with alcohol if you: Are a young adult under peer pressure, Have depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or schizophrenia, Can easily obtain alcohol, Have low self-esteem, Have problems with relationships, Live a stressful lifestyle.

• #80 What Causes Drug or Alcohol Addiction? | Footprints to Recovery

  https://footprintstorecovery.com/drug-addiction/underlying-causes/

  Substance abuse and mental health issues often go hand-in-hand. About half of people with mental health disorders will have substance use issues in their lifetime. Mental health issues can lead to drug abuse and alcohol abuse. On the other hand, substance abuse can cause mental disorder symptoms. […] Addiction is always a symptom of a larger problem. Sometimes the symptom doesn’t always show as substance abuse. People may cope with underlying issues through a variety of unhealthy ways such as eating disorders, sex addiction, dissociative disorders, or gambling disorders. It’s important to address the root causes of substance abuse to help prevent relapse. […] If you detox from drugs and alcohol, but don’t understand the reasons why you’re coping with substances, you’ll likely turn to them again when you encounter the same triggers.

• #81 Alcoholism – Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Diagnosis – MedBroadcast.com

  https://medbroadcast.com/condition/getcondition/alcoholism

  In addition, how one’s body processes alcohol can affect the risk of developing a dependence on alcohol. Research has shown that people who need comparatively more alcohol to achieve an effect are more likely to become alcohol dependent. […] All drugs affect a „reward mechanism” in the brain. If a person feels good each time they use a drug, it tends to make them want to use the drug again. This common feature could explain why people abuse drugs, including alcohol. As with most drugs, though, if you use them regularly, your body tends to require increasing amounts of the substance to achieve the same effect. This is called tolerance, and it may be the final factor that contributes to the development of drug or alcohol dependence. […] Heavy alcohol use increases the risk for almost all diseases, including a number of cancers.

• #82

  https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/alcohol

  Alcohol or alcoholic beverages contain ethanol, a psychoactive and toxic substance that can cause dependence. […] Alcohol consumption is found to play a causal role in more than 200 diseases, injuries and other health conditions. […] A causal relationship has been established between alcohol use and the incidence or outcomes of infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and HIV. […] Alcohol consumption during pregnancy increases the risk of having a child with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs), the most severe form of which is fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), which is associated with developmental disabilities and birth defects. […] The impact of alcohol consumption on chronic and acute health outcomes is largely determined by the total volume of alcohol consumed and the pattern of drinking, particularly those patterns which are associated with the frequency of drinking and episodes of heavy drinking. […] Most alcohol related harms come from heavy episodic or heavy continuous alcohol consumption. […] There is no form of alcohol consumption that is risk-free. Even low levels of alcohol consumption carry some risks and can cause harm.

• #83 Health Risks of Alcohol: Problems Caused By Chronic Heavy Drinking

  https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/addiction-heavy-drinking

  Alcohol affects the brains communication pathways. This makes it harder for you to think and speak clearly, remember things, make decisions, and move your body. Heavy drinking also can cause mental health issues like depression and dementia. You may get painful nerve damage that may linger long after you sober up. […] There is a clear link between heavy alcohol use and many types of cancers. Alcohol can damage the cells in your mouth, throat, voice box, and esophagus. It can lead to cancers in your liver, breast, and intestines. Alcohol can help cancer-causing chemicals in tobacco and other sources enter your cells more easily. […] Long-term alcohol abuse may raise your chances for epilepsy. And alcohol withdrawal after heavy drinking can cause seizures. […] Heavy drinking can hamper your immune cells from fighting off viruses and bacteria. It also can harm your liver, which plays an important role in your immune system by making antibacterial proteins.

• #84 Alcohol related brain impairment | Better Health Channel

  https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/alcohol-related-brain-impairment

  ARBI is associated with changes in cognition (memory and thinking abilities), difficulties with balance and coordination, and a range of medical and neurological disorders. […] Some alcohol-related disorders include: Cerebellar atrophy, Frontal lobe dysfunction, Hepatic encephalopathy, Wernickes encephalopathy, Korsakoffs amnesic syndrome, Peripheral neuropathy. […] Impaired new learning or taking in information and executive functioning are the most common problems associated with ARBI. […] Alcohol and other drug treatments may need to be modified for a person with an ARBI.

• #85 Alcohol related brain impairment | Better Health Channel

  https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/alcohol-related-brain-impairment

  ARBI is associated with changes in cognition (memory and thinking abilities), difficulties with balance and coordination, and a range of medical and neurological disorders. […] Some alcohol-related disorders include: Cerebellar atrophy, Frontal lobe dysfunction, Hepatic encephalopathy, Wernickes encephalopathy, Korsakoffs amnesic syndrome, Peripheral neuropathy. […] Impaired new learning or taking in information and executive functioning are the most common problems associated with ARBI. […] Alcohol and other drug treatments may need to be modified for a person with an ARBI.

• #86

  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/alcohol-misuse/risks/

  Drinking large amounts of alcohol for many years will take its toll on many of the body’s organs and may cause organ damage. Organs known to be damaged by long-term alcohol misuse include the brain and nervous system, heart, liver and pancreas. […] Long-term alcohol misuse can weaken your immune system, making you more vulnerable to serious infections. It can also weaken your bones, placing you at greater risk of fracturing or breaking them. […] There are many long-term health risks associated with alcohol misuse. They include: high blood pressure, stroke, pancreatitis, liver disease, liver cancer, mouth cancer, head and neck cancer, breast cancer, bowel cancer, depression, dementia, sexual problems, such as impotence or premature ejaculation, infertility, damage to the brain, which can lead to problems with thinking and memory. […] As well as having a significant impact on your health, alcohol misuse can also have long-term social implications. For example, it can lead to family break-up and divorce, domestic abuse, unemployment, homelessness, financial problems.

• #87 Health Risks of Alcohol: Problems Caused By Chronic Heavy Drinking

  https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/addiction-heavy-drinking

  If you have a little too much alcohol once in a while, it probably wont do lasting damage if youre otherwise healthy. But its a different story if you regularly drink heavily. […] Too much alcohol can harm you physically and mentally in lots of ways. […] Alcohol is a toxin, and its your livers job to flush it out of your body. But your liver may not be able to keep up if you drink too much too fast. Alcohol can kill liver cells, and lead to scarring called cirrhosis. Long-term heavy use of alcohol also may give you alcoholic fatty liver disease, a sign that your liver doesnt work as well as it should. […] You may know about the dangers of blood clots and high levels of fats and cholesterol in your body. Alcohol makes both things more likely. Studies of heavy drinkers also show that they are more likely to have trouble pumping blood to their heart and may have a higher chance of dying from heart disease.

• #88 Health Risks of Alcohol: Problems Caused By Chronic Heavy Drinking

  https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/addiction-heavy-drinking

  If you have a little too much alcohol once in a while, it probably wont do lasting damage if youre otherwise healthy. But its a different story if you regularly drink heavily. […] Too much alcohol can harm you physically and mentally in lots of ways. […] Alcohol is a toxin, and its your livers job to flush it out of your body. But your liver may not be able to keep up if you drink too much too fast. Alcohol can kill liver cells, and lead to scarring called cirrhosis. Long-term heavy use of alcohol also may give you alcoholic fatty liver disease, a sign that your liver doesnt work as well as it should. […] You may know about the dangers of blood clots and high levels of fats and cholesterol in your body. Alcohol makes both things more likely. Studies of heavy drinkers also show that they are more likely to have trouble pumping blood to their heart and may have a higher chance of dying from heart disease.

• #89 Alcoholism: Causes, Risk Factors, and Symptoms

  https://www.healthline.com/health/alcoholism/basics

  The cause of alcohol use disorder is still unknown. Alcohol use disorder develops when you drink so much that chemical changes in the brain occur. These changes increase the pleasurable feelings you get when you drink alcohol. This makes you want to drink more often, even if it causes harm. […] Alcohol use disorder typically develops gradually over time. Its also known to run in families. […] Although the exact cause of alcohol use disorder is unknown, there are certain factors that may increase your risk for developing this disease. […] Alcohol use disorder can cause serious and lasting damage to your liver. Your liver is responsible for removing toxins from your blood. When you drink too much, your liver has a harder time filtering the alcohol and other toxins from your bloodstream. This can lead to liver disease and other complications.

• #90 Health Risks of Alcohol: Problems Caused By Chronic Heavy Drinking

  https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/addiction-heavy-drinking

  Booze is caustic. It can inflame the stomach lining, causing heartburn and nausea. Over time, this can give you ulcers and chronic inflammation in your stomach, esophagus, and gut. It can also make it harder for your intestines to digest important nutrients like B12 and thiamine. Alcohol can also cause a buildup of digestive enzymes in the pancreas, leading to a condition called pancreatitis, or an inflamed pancreas. This can affect how much insulin you make, putting you at higher risk for diabetes. […] Knocking back a lot of drinks may knock you out at night. But once the sedative effect wears off, it can disrupt or lower the quality of your sleep. Binge drinking too often can make it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. It can also increase snoring and sleep apnea, making it hard to get a good nights rest.

• #91 Health Risks of Alcohol: Problems Caused By Chronic Heavy Drinking

  https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/addiction-heavy-drinking

  Booze is caustic. It can inflame the stomach lining, causing heartburn and nausea. Over time, this can give you ulcers and chronic inflammation in your stomach, esophagus, and gut. It can also make it harder for your intestines to digest important nutrients like B12 and thiamine. Alcohol can also cause a buildup of digestive enzymes in the pancreas, leading to a condition called pancreatitis, or an inflamed pancreas. This can affect how much insulin you make, putting you at higher risk for diabetes. […] Knocking back a lot of drinks may knock you out at night. But once the sedative effect wears off, it can disrupt or lower the quality of your sleep. Binge drinking too often can make it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. It can also increase snoring and sleep apnea, making it hard to get a good nights rest.

• #92 Alcohol and Cancer Risk Fact Sheet – NCI

  https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/alcohol/alcohol-fact-sheet

  There is strong scientific evidence that alcohol drinking can cause cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified alcohol as a Group 1 carcinogen (cancer-causing substance) in 1987 due to sufficient evidence that it causes cancers of the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, esophagus, and liver in people. […] Epidemiologic studies have shown that people who drink alcohol are at higher risk of certain cancers than those who do not drink alcohol and that the more someone drinks, the higher the risk of these cancers. Even light drinkers can be at increased risk of some cancers. […] Alcohol consumption was responsible for about 5% or nearly 100,000 of the 1.8 million cancer cases diagnosed in the United States in 2019 and about 4% or nearly 25,000 of the 600,000 US cancer deaths that year.

• #93 Health Risks of Alcohol: Problems Caused By Chronic Heavy Drinking

  https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/addiction-heavy-drinking

  Alcohol affects the brains communication pathways. This makes it harder for you to think and speak clearly, remember things, make decisions, and move your body. Heavy drinking also can cause mental health issues like depression and dementia. You may get painful nerve damage that may linger long after you sober up. […] There is a clear link between heavy alcohol use and many types of cancers. Alcohol can damage the cells in your mouth, throat, voice box, and esophagus. It can lead to cancers in your liver, breast, and intestines. Alcohol can help cancer-causing chemicals in tobacco and other sources enter your cells more easily. […] Long-term alcohol abuse may raise your chances for epilepsy. And alcohol withdrawal after heavy drinking can cause seizures. […] Heavy drinking can hamper your immune cells from fighting off viruses and bacteria. It also can harm your liver, which plays an important role in your immune system by making antibacterial proteins.

• #94 Alcohol and Cancer Risk Fact Sheet – NCI

  https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/alcohol/alcohol-fact-sheet

  There is strong scientific evidence that alcohol drinking can cause cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified alcohol as a Group 1 carcinogen (cancer-causing substance) in 1987 due to sufficient evidence that it causes cancers of the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, esophagus, and liver in people. […] Epidemiologic studies have shown that people who drink alcohol are at higher risk of certain cancers than those who do not drink alcohol and that the more someone drinks, the higher the risk of these cancers. Even light drinkers can be at increased risk of some cancers. […] Alcohol consumption was responsible for about 5% or nearly 100,000 of the 1.8 million cancer cases diagnosed in the United States in 2019 and about 4% or nearly 25,000 of the 600,000 US cancer deaths that year.

• #95 Causes And Risk Factors Of Alcoholism

  https://www.addictioncenter.com/alcohol/alcoholism-causes-risk-factors/

  Alcoholism is a very complex disease, and every case is different. There are dozens of risk factors and causes, any of which can impact a specific individual. Also, no factors are determinative; someone with very few risk factors may have severe alcoholism, and someone else with many risk factors may have no drinking issues. […] There is no singular cause of alcoholism. In fact, there are dozens of risk factors that play a role in the development of an alcohol addiction. These risk factors interact differently in every individual, leading to alcohol use disorders (AUDs) in some and not in others. […] Both internal and external factors contribute to the development of alcoholism. Internal factors include genetics, psychological conditions, personality, personal choice, and drinking history. External factors include family, environment, religion, social and cultural norms, age, education, and job status.

• #96 What Are the Causes of Alcoholism & Alcohol Abuse?

  https://alcohol.org/alcoholism/the-causes/

  Likewise, there is no single identified cause that leads to the development of alcoholism. […] Family history is often meant to designate a genetic component to some disease or disorder; however, in the case of mental health disorders, family history can represent genetic factors, learning factors, or a combination of both. […] Even though numerous genetic associations have been described for the development of substance use disorders, there is no singular genetic factor that can be designated as a cause to any substance use disorder. […] The presence of a pre-existing substance use disorder is an increased risk factor to be diagnosed with another type of mental health disorder later. […] It appears that any type of traumatic or stress-related situation can increase the risk to abuse alcohol; however, certain types of experiences, such as physical or sexual abuse, the loss of a parent at a young age (even through divorce), being the victim of a violent crime, etc., can produce more salient effects.

• #97 Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder | National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)

  https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/understanding-alcohol-use-disorder

  Alcohol misuse defined as drinking in a manner, situation, amount, or frequency that could cause harm to the person who drinks or to those around them over time increases the risk of AUD. […] Genetics play a role, with hereditability accounting for approximately 60%. However, like other chronic health conditions, AUD risk is influenced by the interplay between a person’s genes and their environment. […] A wide range of psychiatric conditions including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are comorbid with AUD and are associated with an increased risk of AUD.

• #98 Alcoholism – Genetics, Environment, Abuse | Britannica

  https://www.britannica.com/science/alcoholism/Causes-of-alcoholism

  Studies of twins and adoptees have confirmed the common belief that alcoholism can be inherited. This genetic component is not inexorable, but reflects a predisposition that renders some people significantly more vulnerable to alcoholism than others. At present there is no evidence that this predisposition depends upon a single gene. Rather, there are probably a large number of genes, each with rather small individual effects, that affect the risk of developing alcoholism. […] Besides heredity, there are at least five other major contributing causes to alcoholism: peer influence, cultural influence, certain coexisting psychiatric conditions, availability, and occupation. Peer social networks (friends, clubs, or spouses) that include heavy drinkers and alcohol abusers increase the individuals risk of alcoholism. Cultural attitudes and informal rules for drinking are also important.

• #99 Alcohol use disorder – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alcohol-use-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20369243

  Genetic, psychological, social and environmental factors can impact how drinking alcohol affects your body and behavior. Theories suggest that for certain people drinking has a different and stronger impact that can lead to alcohol use disorder. […] Over time, drinking too much alcohol may change the normal function of the areas of your brain associated with the experience of pleasure, judgment and the ability to exercise control over your behavior. This may result in craving alcohol to try to restore good feelings or reduce negative ones.

• #100 Understanding the Underlying Causes of Alcoholism

  https://northstarrecoverycenter.com/understanding-the-underlying-causes-of-alcoholism/

  One of the fundamental aspects of alcoholism lies in the genetic predisposition that some individuals may inherit from their family members. Numerous studies have shown a strong genetic component in the development of alcohol use disorder. Individuals with a family history of alcoholism are at a higher risk of developing the condition themselves. This suggests that certain genetic factors may influence an individuals response to alcohol, affecting their tolerance levels and susceptibility to addiction. […] While genetics play a significant role, environmental factors also contribute to the development of alcoholism. The environment in which an individual grows up and lives can significantly influence their relationship with alcohol. Factors such as family dynamics, peer pressure, social and cultural norms surrounding alcohol use, and exposure to trauma or stress can all contribute to the development of alcohol use disorder.

• #101 Understanding the Underlying Causes of Alcoholism

  https://northstarrecoverycenter.com/understanding-the-underlying-causes-of-alcoholism/

  Social and peer influence can also significantly impact an individuals alcohol consumption patterns. Peer pressure, the desire to fit in with a particular social group, or the influence of friends or colleagues who engage in heavy drinking can all contribute to increased alcohol use. […] Alcoholism is a complex and multifaceted disorder with many underlying causes. Genetic predisposition, environmental factors, co-occurring mental health disorders, neurological changes, childhood trauma, and social influences all contribute to the development of alcohol use disorder. Recognizing and understanding these underlying factors is essential in creating effective prevention, intervention, and treatment strategies for individuals struggling with alcoholism.

• #102 What is alcohol use disorder? How to treat alcoholism

  https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/157163

  The age of the first alcoholic drink: People who start drinking alcohol before the age of 15 years may be 3 times as likely to develop AUD as people who begin drinking at the age of 21 years or older. […] Stress: Some stress hormones may have links to alcohol misuse. If stress and anxiety levels are high, a person may consume alcohol in an attempt to blank out the upheaval. […] Peer drinking: People whose friends drink regularly or excessively are more likely to drink too much. This can eventually lead to alcohol-related problems. […] Low self-esteem: People with low self-esteem are more likely to consume too much. […] Depression: People with depression may use alcohol as self-treatment. On the other hand, consuming excess alcohol may increase the risk of depression rather than reducing it. […] How the body processes or metabolizes alcohol: People who need comparatively more alcohol to achieve an effect have a higher risk of eventually developing health problems related to alcohol.

• #103 Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder | National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)

  https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/understanding-alcohol-use-disorder

  Alcohol misuse defined as drinking in a manner, situation, amount, or frequency that could cause harm to the person who drinks or to those around them over time increases the risk of AUD. […] Genetics play a role, with hereditability accounting for approximately 60%. However, like other chronic health conditions, AUD risk is influenced by the interplay between a person’s genes and their environment. […] A wide range of psychiatric conditions including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are comorbid with AUD and are associated with an increased risk of AUD.

• #104 Alcohol dependence

  https://www.drinkaware.co.uk/facts/health-effects-of-alcohol/mental-health/alcohol-dependence

  What causes alcohol dependence? […] Usually, several different factors contribute to someone becoming alcohol dependent. The society and environment that you live in plays an important role in how likely you are to develop problems with alcohol. For example, how easily available alcohol is, how much it costs, and pressure from friends, family or colleagues to drink. […] And alcohol dependence can run in families. Its partly down to your genes, but is also influenced by your familys attitudes to alcohol and the environment you grow up in. […] Stressful events, such as bereavement or losing a job, can also trigger heavy drinking in some people, which can then lead to alcohol dependence. […] People who are alcohol dependent have higher rates of other mental health problems than the general population particularly depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, psychosis and drug misuse. […] Often, people drink to try and reduce symptoms (sometimes known as self-medicating), but in the long-term alcohol makes these disorders worse because it interferes with the chemical balance in our brains.

• #105 Understanding the Underlying Causes of Alcoholism

  https://northstarrecoverycenter.com/understanding-the-underlying-causes-of-alcoholism/

  Social and peer influence can also significantly impact an individuals alcohol consumption patterns. Peer pressure, the desire to fit in with a particular social group, or the influence of friends or colleagues who engage in heavy drinking can all contribute to increased alcohol use. […] Alcoholism is a complex and multifaceted disorder with many underlying causes. Genetic predisposition, environmental factors, co-occurring mental health disorders, neurological changes, childhood trauma, and social influences all contribute to the development of alcohol use disorder. Recognizing and understanding these underlying factors is essential in creating effective prevention, intervention, and treatment strategies for individuals struggling with alcoholism.

Zobacz więcej